In Hypnotic language, Burton shows therapists how to expand the client's cognitive awareness, specifically, the cognitive and perceptual processes involved in meaning making. In doing so, the therapist is more able to identify the specific awareness limitations of the client and identify the specific cognitive perceptual ingredients that make up the client's problem.

Drawing on this insight, the hypnotherapist can then construct hypnotic language patterns that go right to the client's issues, invoking positive change. Numerous case examples are presented that include client assessments and dynamics, selecting and constructing hypnotic language patterns and applying the language patterns in therapy.